Instrumentation and Control Technician Apprentice

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Apprenticeship is the first-in-the-nation registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering. It is designed to equip the next generation of technicians with the skills necessary to help build and operate a fusion energy experiment. A PPPL Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway for high school graduates, veterans, and others looking to join this exciting endeavor. The Instrumentation and Control technician apprentice program shall be considered complete when the apprentice has satisfactorily completed each of the competencies listed below and the related technical Instruction. This apprenticeship takes approximately 3 to 4 years to complete. The program leads to a portable, nationally recognized credential and a possible career at our national laboratory. The apprentice will receive pay and benefits, as well as all the RTI is fully paid for by PPPL.

PPPL apprenticeship website: https://www.pppl.gov/work-with-us/apprenticeships. Questions can be sent to apprenticship@pppl.gov.

The instrumentation and controls (I&C) technician apprentice works with engineering staff, researchers and other technical staff to support the design, deployment and lifecycle management of custom computing systems used to operate complex experimental devices. These computing systems employ a combination of off-the-shelf and custom programs and peripherals to sample, process and transmit data to one another. The I&C technician apprentice will configure, operate and maintain systems following with guidance from engineering staff, employing proper documentation and leveraging continuous improvement. The I&C technician apprentice will apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electronic components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties: 

Installation, Maintenance, Repair and Troubleshooting

• Install, modify, maintain and repair of electronics equipment, prototypes, and computer systems to ensure proper functioning for scientific and experimental apparatus.
• Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers and engineers as necessary to procure replacements.
• Replace defective components or parts using hand tools and precision instruments.
• Install or maintain control systems. industrial automation systems or electrical/electronic equipment including control circuits for scientific and research systems.
• Assemble, test, or maintain circuitry, electronic, or computer components to engineering requirements under the guidance of engineering and research staff using procedures, technical manuals and basic knowledge of computers and electronics.
• Set up and operate specialized or standard test equipment to diagnose, test, or analyze the performance of electronic components, assemblies, or computer systems.
• Installation, repair and maintenance of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).

Networking

• Install, configure, and maintain network systems, switches, and devices to ensure systems effectively communicate and transmit information in support of scientific research and experimental device requirements.

System Design, Documentation and Administration

• Compile and maintain records documenting engineering schematics, installed equipment, installation or operational problems, resources and corrective actions performed.
• Maintain system logs or manuals to document testing or operations of equipment.
• Document and archive software codes used for the operation of instrumentation and controls systems.
• Design or modify engineering diagnostic and control schematics for experimental devices, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• Produce electronics drawings or other graphics representing industrial control, instrumentation, sensors, or analog or digital telecommunications networks, using computer-aided design (CAD) and other software.
• Review engineering procedures, plans, and criteria to ensure adherence to design criteria and compliance to all applicable standards.
• Review existing documentation, procedures, and engineering criteria to identify necessary revisions, deletions, or revisions to outdated material.
• Select and procure electronics equipment, components, or systems to meet functional specifications.
• Calculate design specifications, cost, and resource estimates to meet project schedules and budgets.
• Educate and train equipment operators on the proper use of equipment and systems.
• Specify, coordinate, and conduct quality control or quality assurance programs to comply with procedures and lab policy.

Computer Operations

• Integrate computer software and hardware components using computer, microprocessor, or control architecture.
• Program computers using various computer codes (i.e. python, Labview, etc.) as determined by engineering and research staff.
• Interpret test information to resolve design related problems.

Education and Experience: 

• Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent by the start of the program.
• No experience needed.
• The program will enroll the successful candidate into Thomas Edison State University for the required Related Technical Instruction (RTI). If you are already in a similar course you can possibly be credited for those courses towards the program.
• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Enrollment in an accredited college with electronics/computer courses is highly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Passionate, dedicated, motivated, time management, problem solving, team player, ready to learn and be challenged.
• Below are some areas that this apprenticeship will cover, it is not required to have former knowledge or experience in these skills, however it would be beneficial to have some general knowledge going into the program.
  • Reading and understanding technical drawings including power system one-line diagrams, circuit schematics, control wiring diagrams and general arrangement drawings.
  • Basic understanding of computers, electrical/electronic principles, circuits, and safety practices.
  • Familiarity with common hand tools and basic power tools used in the trade.
  • Strong commitment to safety protocols and procedures, particularly Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) and Electrical safety.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately and efficiently.
  • Ability to work in various physical conditions (e.g., confined spaces, heights, varying temperatures).
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

Physical Requirements: 

• Must be able to work in awkward positions, in narrow or confined spaces, bend, climb, lift and/or move heavy objects up to 50lbs.
• Must be able to climb ladders or stairs to reach objects; comfortable with heights.
• May require frequent kneeling, bending, walking and/or standing for long periods of time.

Working Conditions: 

• This position is fully on-site. The candidate must be able to work 40 hours per week and attend classes outside of working hours.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.